Japan Currents 2026 Explores U.S.-Japan Innovation and Growth

The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW) recently hosted its annual Japan Currents 2026 event at Southern Methodist University (SMU), drawing approximately 100 business leaders, policymakers, scholars, and community members to explore the theme "Innovation and Growth: Urbanization and Globalization in the U.S.–Japan Partnership." Presented in partnership with the SMU Tower Center and supported by Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Japan Currents series, this gathering was also streamed live to a national audience via the network of National Japan America Societies, amplifying its reach. The program featured a keynote luncheon with Mikio Sugeno, Senior Editorial Writer at Nikkei Inc., who delivered a thought-provoking analysis titled "Sanaenomics and the U.S.–Japan Relationship — Will Japan Really Gain Momentum for Change?" examining Japan's recent snap election results and economic prospects.

A dynamic afternoon panel, moderated by Dr. Hiroki Takeuchi of the SMU Tower Center, expanded on the theme with insights from industry and academia experts, including Chris Carter of Toyota Motor North America, Russell Keith of 1Finity (formerly Fujitsu Network), Dr. Kristin Vekasi of the University of Montana, and Mike Chmielecki of Nomura Research Institute (NRI). Their discussion delved into how organizations navigate rapid change, shifting investment patterns, and evolving geopolitical and market realities, connecting theoretical concepts to real-world decision-making. Beyond the formal presentations, the event fostered valuable connections during networking breaks, where guests exchanged perspectives across sectors, reinforcing North Texas' role as an active hub in the U.S.–Japan relationship and linking corporate strategy to public policy and local opportunities to global partnerships.

Japan Currents is part of a national public affairs series inaugurated by the National Association of Japan-America Societies (NAJAS) with support from the Embassy of Japan in Washington, DC, designed to elevate thoughtful, regionally grounded dialogue on U.S.–Japan cooperation. JASDFW, as the organizer, strengthens U.S.–Japan relations through education, business collaboration, and cultural exchange, serving as a vital connector for professionals across North Texas. For media inquiries, contact Margaret McKoin at margaret@thetimegroup.net or 817.403.0866.